EPA Reverses Course on Gas Can Regulations, Citing Consumer Frustration
WASHINGTON D.C. – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant rollback of regulations governing portable gasoline containers,a move aimed at addressing consumer complaints and simplifying product availability. The agencyS decision, announced Friday, reverses a previous mandate that required specific design features for gas cans, which had been criticized for being tough to use and leading to confusion in the market.
The regulations in question were implemented to reduce vapor emissions and prevent spills, with the EPA citing that millions of gas cans in the U.S. were a notable source of air pollution. According to earlier reports, emissions from a single older-style can could be significantly higher than those from a car’s gas tank if both were left open. These rules were phased in starting in 2009.
However, the EPA now states that the previous regulations created “confusion” and were a “frustration for years.” EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting American manufacturers and delivering products that consumers desire. “Part of powering the great American comeback means ensuring manufacturers have the clarity and encouragement to deliver products Americans want,” Zeldin saeid in a statement. “The confusion surrounding gas cans has been a frustration for years.We are proud to address this issue head on.Moving forward, Americans should have gas cans that are compliant, but most importantly, that are effective and consumer friendly.”
the reversal has led some consumers and retailers to seek out older, “pre-ban” gas cans, manufactured before the stricter regulations took effect. One retailer, who wished to remain anonymous, reported selling used pre-2009 cans for ample prices, with some customers paying hundreds of dollars for these older models, largely due to shipping costs.This demand highlights the ongoing consumer preference for the functionality of the older designs. The retailer noted that they stock up on these older cans before hurricane season, anticipating continued demand.
This action by the EPA follows a broader pattern of regulatory review by the Trump administration, which has sought to reduce regulations deemed burdensome to consumers and businesses, or of questionable environmental benefit. Notably, the administration had previously sought similar changes to low-flow bathroom fixtures.
